Analog Explorer

Analog Explorer

By AJ Barse, Analog Explorer®

The Analog Explorer® is a journey with fellow enthusiasts and the #watchfam to discover their passions with watches and beyond. As a professional photographer, hiker, and recreational diver based in the Pacific Northwest, host AJ Barse shares his drive for exploration through interviews and discussions with analog enthusiasts, collectors, creative watchmakers, and others who celebrate the impact and art of horology. The most universally limited resource is time; and the Analog Explorer reminds us all of the need to Fac Tempus Ad Explorandum i.e. "Make the Time To Explore."
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Currently playing episode

AE. 19 | Typsim Watches

Analog ExplorerSep 15, 2023
00:00
33:02
AE | 48 Carpe Diem with Mokoto Watches

AE | 48 Carpe Diem with Mokoto Watches

For full show notes, follow on Substack

A cancer diagnosis, a bucket list trip to Japan, and a watch brand born from a carpe diem of what is important in life...

It is easy to run life on autopilot, day in and day out, until something stops you cold and reminds you how little time we might actually have. Most of us think about that abstractly. For Ryan LeClaire and his wife Andrea of Makoto Watches, it became something much more literal.

A few years ago, Andrea was diagnosed with stage 4 cancer, with an initial prognosis of four months to live. Ryan did what any husband would do and dropped everything, including selling their furniture business, to be with her. That kind of news shifts your perspective fast. For this couple it became carpe diem, a shared mission to seize every day they had. Andrea encouraged Ryan to follow his passion. As a lifelong watch collector with an eye for design, the direction was already clear. So he started designing watches, staying home with her, and combined with a bucket list trip to Japan, Makoto Watches was born...

https://www.analogexplorer.com/p/ae-48-carpe-diem-with-mokoto-watches

For full show notes, Analog Explorer ® is a reader-supported publication and podcast. To receive new posts, full show notes, and more, ⁠⁠⁠consider supporting Analog Explorer on Substack.⁠⁠⁠

Jun 18, 202619:07
AE | 47 - Elliot Brown; California Dream'n Dials & Community

AE | 47 - Elliot Brown; California Dream'n Dials & Community

Full show notes on Substack

https://open.substack.com/pub/analogexplorer/p/ae-47-elliot-brown-california-dreamn?r=8z6az&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=true

This time last year was bananas, to say the least. Right as the Vancouver Timepiece Show was getting underway, the #watchfam found itself watching favorite brands navigate a full-blown trade war, sometimes on an hourly basis. Some brands were upfront about passing on the tariff costs. Others quietly ate them to keep prices steady for their customers. And a small few, including Elliot Brown, made the difficult call to pause sales to the United States entirely until things settled.

A year on, Gem Parker of Elliot Brown is back on the mic at the 2026 Vancouver Timepiece Show to recount that year, and to tease out where Elliot Brown is going next.


For full show notes, Analog Explorer ® is a reader-supported publication and podcast. To receive new posts, full show notes, and more, ⁠⁠⁠consider supporting Analog Explorer on Substack.⁠⁠⁠

Jun 11, 202618:52
AE | 46 "The Voice of Your Universe" - Gavox Watches - Michael Happé

AE | 46 "The Voice of Your Universe" - Gavox Watches - Michael Happé

Full show notes on Substack

https://open.substack.com/pub/analogexplorer/p/ae-46-the-voice-of-your-universe?r=8z6az&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=true

One of the things that draws me to shows like the Vancouver Timepiece Show is the creative independence on display. These brands are not just growing up, some of them are just ‘grown up.’ And what many of them are producing now sits at a level that can go toe to toe with far bigger names, at a price point that still lets the rest of us play along. Gavox Watches out of Belgium is a perfect example of that.

For full show notes, Analog Explorer ® is a reader-supported publication and podcast. To receive new posts, full show notes, and more, ⁠⁠consider supporting Analog Explorer on Substack.⁠⁠

May 21, 202613:03
AE | 45 - "The Human Work" - Timepiece World Journal - Matt Black

AE | 45 - "The Human Work" - Timepiece World Journal - Matt Black

Because the stories behind the watches matter as much as the watches themselves.

Full show notes at https://open.substack.com/pub/analogexplorer/p/ae-45-the-human-work-timepiece-world?r=8z6az&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=true

Matt is a communications professional and fellow avid watch enthusiast with a passion for not just watches, but the “human side” of the stories behind them. Together, they are building the Timepiece World Journal as a new editorial platform focused not on specs and reviews, but on the people and stories behind the watches we collect and love.

So in an age where the content space feels this wide, where do you go? For these two, the answer was to go deeper not wider.

For full show notes, Analog Explorer ® is a reader-supported publication and podcast. To receive new posts, full show notes, and more, consider supporting Analog Explorer on Substack.

May 21, 202609:49
AE | 44 Running Into Old Friends - "Our Ken"

AE | 44 Running Into Old Friends - "Our Ken"

Ken as Arken Watch Co. wasn’t at the show as a brand this year. No table, no speakeasy (this year), just Ken as a fellow lover of watches and the #watchfam checking out the floor as a regular attendee and catching up with friends.

Full show notes at : https://open.substack.com/pub/analogexplorer/p/ae-44-running-into-old-friends-our?r=8z6az&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=true


For full show notes, Analog Explorer ® is a reader-supported publication and podcast. To receive new posts, full show notes, and more, consider supporting Analog Explorer on Substack.

May 21, 202607:13
AE | 43 Community Connections - 2026 Vancouver Timepiece Show

AE | 43 Community Connections - 2026 Vancouver Timepiece Show

Community, storytelling, and new voices from the #watchfam

Full show notes at : https://www.analogexplorer.com/p/ae-43-community-connections-2026

Last year, the conversations from the show centered on what I called the shifting sands of global trade, with tariffs, uncertainty, and how brands were navigating constantly moving ground. A year on, by and large our favorite brands are still standing and things seem to have stabilized. So this time around, I wanted to shift the focus to something closer to the heart of the Analog Explorercommunity.

In the #watchfam there are so many different ways we share our enthusiasm for horology, and the interviews going into this season with the Vancouver Timepiece Show are going to highlight a few new and different ones.

The interviews from the 2026 Vancouver Timepiece Show are on their way to the Analog Explorer  feed....

For full show notes, Analog Explorer ® is a reader-supported publication and podcast. To receive new posts, full show notes, and more, consider supporting Analog Explorer on Substack.

May 07, 202604:02
AE. 42 | Sinziana Iordache- Vancouver Timepiece Show
Jun 30, 202519:09
AE. 41 | Serica Watches - Vancouver Timepiece Show

AE. 41 | Serica Watches - Vancouver Timepiece Show

In this episode of The Analog Explorer, I sat down with Jérôme Burgert, designer and co-founder of Serica Watches, right off the floor of the inaugural Vancouver Timepiece Show. Serica is one of those brands that has been on my radar since day one thanks to its minimal, purposeful aesthetic and the rare balance it strikes between elegance and adventure.

For Jérôme, good design isn’t about chasing trends or copying vintage cues, it’s about capturing emotion through form, all while building something that can take a hit and keep ticking. “Why choose between pretty and robust?” he asked. “When you don’t have to choose, it becomes the watch you just reach for every day.”

https://www.analogexplorer.com/p/ae-41-serica-watches-vancouver-timepiece⁠

🎧 Subscribe and listen to the full episode now, wherever you get your podcasts, or support the Analog Explorer on ⁠⁠⁠⁠Substack⁠.

Jun 30, 202525:46
AE. 40 | Studio Underd0g - Vancouver Timepiece Show

AE. 40 | Studio Underd0g - Vancouver Timepiece Show

In this episode of The Analog Explorer, I stepped outside the bustling Vancouver Timepiece Show to chat with George, lead videographer at Studio Underd0g—a small team with big personality and watches that crank the whimsy dial to 1000!

If you’ve ever asked, “Why so serious?” while doomscrolling past silver-and-black dive watch reels or posts, Studio Underd0g is your antidote. Founded by Richard Benc in 2021, the brand launched with a Kickstarter and a mission: make great watches that don’t take themselves too seriously. And they’ve stuck to it—with colorways like Watermelon, Mint Choc Chip, and the latest duo, Avocado and Guac. They’ve managed to blend horological craftsmanship with joyful whimsy....

https://www.analogexplorer.com/p/ae-40-studio-underd0g-vancouver-timepiece


🎧 Subscribe and listen to the full episode now, wherever you get your podcasts, or support the Analog Explorer on ⁠⁠⁠⁠Substack⁠.

Jun 30, 202527:18
AE. 39 | Isotope Watches - Vancouver Timepiece Show
Jun 30, 202525:59
AE. 38 | Paulin Watches - Vancouver Timepiece Show
Jun 29, 202508:51
AE. 37 | Jacques Bianchi Marseille - Vancouver Timepiece Show
Jun 29, 202509:02
AE. 36 | Beaucroft Watches - Vancouver Timepiece Show
Jun 29, 202516:52
AE. 35 | ARKEN - Vancouver Timepiece Show
Jun 11, 202526:11
AE. 34 | Farer Universal - Vancouver Timepiece Show
Jun 04, 202511:34
AE. 33 | Noctua Watches- Vancouver Timepiece Show
May 30, 202509:53
AE. 32 | Baltic - Vancouver Timepiece Show

AE. 32 | Baltic - Vancouver Timepiece Show

In this edition of the Analog Explorer Podcast, I catch up with Rémi Martin, the showroom manager of Baltic’s New York boutique, live from the Vancouver Timepiece Show.

🎧 Subscribe and listen to the full episode now, wherever you get your podcasts, or support the Analog Explorer on Substack.

https://www.analogexplorer.com/p/ae-32-baltic-watches-vancouver-timepiece

Rémi highlighted how rare it is for a microbrand to have even one physical showroom, let alone three around the world. For Baltic, these spaces are more than just retail locations, they’re vital opportunities to offer any potential wearer a direct hands-on connection with the brand. Whether it’s through their showrooms or events like the Vancouver Timepiece Show, Baltic creates space for both seasoned watch-enthusiasts and curious watch-muggles to discover a personal link to the pieces they produce. Trying on a watch lets people connect to a piece, whether it’s a bold statement like the Prismic with its hardstone dial or the beloved Aquascaphe, in a way no online render ever could. As Rémi pointed out, watches today aren’t about necessity; they’re about desire. They’re emotional objects, often tied to memories, legacies, or identity. “You don’t need a watch anymore,” he said. “So if it’s not fun, if you don’t feel something when you wear it, what’s the point?”...


🎧 Subscribe and listen to the full episode now, wherever you get your podcasts, or support the Analog Explorer on Substack

May 23, 202512:59
AE. 31 | VAER Watches - Vancouver Timepiece Show

AE. 31 | VAER Watches - Vancouver Timepiece Show


In this edition of The Analog Explorer, I had the chance to chat with Austen from VAER Watches live from the Vancouver Timepiece Show.

🎧 Subscribe and listen to the full episode now wherever you get your podcasts or support the Analog Explorer on Substack : https://www.analogexplorer.com/p/ae-31-vaer-watches-vancouver-timepiece

Our interview was during one of the busy times at the show, but Austen and I carved out a moment to talk. We covered what makes something truly timeless and how VAER’s design approach finds ways to balance that timelessness while speaking to someone’s personality and lifestyle. He shared what first pulled him into mechanical watches. In a world full of disposable tech, the idea that something could still be ticking a hundred years from now really stuck with him; a sentiment many of us in the #watchfam share. That idea of longevity, of building something that lasts or even outlasts a wearer, is a part of what got him hooked. As he put it, “Even in a hundred years, if you wanted to make a gear, you could still make that gear to power that watch.” That kind of staying power is rare in a constantly updating digital world. It is becoming more and more rare with every new upgrade cycle.

🎧 Subscribe and listen to the full episode now wherever you get your podcasts or support the Analog Explorer on Substack.


May 21, 202513:43
AE. 30 | TYPSIM Watches - Vancouver Timepiece Show

AE. 30 | TYPSIM Watches - Vancouver Timepiece Show

In this episode of The Analog Explorer, I caught up with Matt Zinski of Typsim Watches live from the Vancouver Timepiece Show. First featured back in Episode 19, he returns to the show with many of the ideas he hinted at then, now fully realized in the metal. ...

🎧 Subscribe and listen to the full episode now wherever you get your podcasts or support the Analog Explorer on Substack.

Big thanks to the Vancouver Timepiece Show for creator and media access for these conversations. Keep your eye on timepieceshow.com for updates on the upcoming Toronto Timepiece Show.


May 12, 202510:05
AE. 29 | Elliot Brown Watches - Vancouver Timepiece Show

AE. 29 | Elliot Brown Watches - Vancouver Timepiece Show

🎧 Subscribe and listen to the full episode now wherever you get your podcasts or support the Analog Explorer on Substack.

In this episode of the Analog Explorer Podcast, I catch up with Gem Parker of Elliot Brown Watches during the Vancouver Timepiece Show to talk about the brand’s mission, design philosophy, and the uncompromising durability behind their adventure-ready watches.

Be sure to follow them on Instagram at @EBwatches or check out their Journal to stay connected, and stay up to date via their website elliotbrownwatches.com

Big thanks to the Vancouver Timepiece Show for creator and media access for these conversations. Keep your eye on timepieceshow.com for updates on the upcoming Toronto Timepiece Show.

🎧 Subscribe and listen to the full episode now wherever you get your podcasts or support the Analog Explorer on Substack.


https://www.analogexplorer.com/p/ae-29-elliot-brown-watches-vancouver

May 10, 202519:22
AE. 28 | Jason Hutton - Vancouver Timepiece Show

AE. 28 | Jason Hutton - Vancouver Timepiece Show

A Conversation with Jason Hutton at the Vancouver Timepiece Show

We’re back with Season 5 of the Analog Explorer Podcast, and we’re kicking things off with the first special episode recorded live at the inaugural Vancouver Timepiece Show, held April 25–27, 2025, at the historic Pipe Shop Venue in North Vancouver, British Columbia.


On the podcast, I sat down with Jason Hutton, the producer behind both the Vancouver and Toronto Timepiece Shows, and the founder of ZENEA Watches. We chatted just outside the venue on a surprisingly perfect, and yet rare, PNW sunny spring afternoon, talking about the motivation behind bringing a watch show to Vancouver, what goes into organizing something like this, and the unique energy that independent and microbrand communities bring to the scene.


For full notes, photos, and video links subscribe or support the Analog Explorer on Substack -  https://open.substack.com/pub/analogexplorer/p/ae-28-jason-hutton-vancouver-timepiece?r=8z6az&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=true

May 05, 202526:41
AE. 27 | Upcoming Tales from the Vancouver Timepiece Show
May 01, 202505:03
AE.26 | "America Wasn't Assembled, It Was Built" | R.T. Custer

AE.26 | "America Wasn't Assembled, It Was Built" | R.T. Custer

For full notes, photos, and video links subscribe to Analog Explorer on Substack - https://open.substack.com/pub/analogexplorer/p/ae26-america-wasnt-assembled-it-was


This month wraps the 4th season of Analog Explorer Podcast as we sit down with R.T. Custer, CEO and founder of Vortic Watches dedicated to bring back American watchmaking at scale right in Colorado 🇺🇸


Vortic Watches, proudly based in Colorado, has carved out a unique niche by restoring and preserving vintage American timepieces while also promoting the future of modern American watchmaking and manufacturing. In this episode, R.T. takes us through the past decade and Vortic’s journey, from their early use of 3D printing to their legal fight defending artisanship and upcycling against the major Swiss conglomerate Swatch (Hamilton) in court. We also explore the exciting creation of the Colorado Watch Company in partnership with Fine Timepiece Solutions (FTS).

For full notes, photos, and video links subscribe to Analog Explorer on Substack - ⁠https://open.substack.com/pub/analogexplorer/p/ae26-america-wasnt-assembled-it-was⁠


Analog Explorer Ep 26 special video edition on YouTube https://youtu.be/s8smVeSd2Mo


Vortic Watch Co. https://vorticwatches.com/

Colorado Watch Co. https://coloradowatchcompany.com/


Oct 31, 202401:03:10
AE. 25 | Etienne Malec & Baltic Watches

AE. 25 | Etienne Malec & Baltic Watches

For full notes, photos, and video links subscribe to Analog Explorer on Substack -

https://analogexplorer.substack.com/p/ae-25-etienne-malec-baltic-watches

Etienne Malec is the founder and Chef d’Orchestre behind Baltic Watches. He is a photographer, classic car collector, and a friend of ours in the #watchfam.

What draws so many of us to Baltic Watches is the symphony Etienne has orchestrated of vintage design, modern manufacturing, and affordable watches. While Baltic Watches pays homage to design concepts of the past, Baltic has formed its own unique design language that makes its watches stand out with every new release. There is always something that resonates in the #watchfam with a Baltic watch. In this episode, we explore its beginnings.

For full notes, photos, and video links subscribe to Analog Explorer on Substack -

https://analogexplorer.substack.com/p/ae-25-etienne-malec-baltic-watches

Jul 05, 202401:02:34
AE. 24 | 80th Anniversary D-Day & Bausele Watches

AE. 24 | 80th Anniversary D-Day & Bausele Watches

For full notes, photos, and video links subscribe to Analog Explorer on Substack - https://analogexplorer.substack.com/p/ae-24-80th-anniversary-d-day-and

In this episode, we commemorate the 80th anniversary of D-Day. Dan (@timely_moments) from the Zulu Time Podcast rejoins the show as the Analog Explorer foreign history field correspondent giving the WWII background behind the new project called the Langstone field watch commemorating the 80th anniversary of D-Day today. For the second part of the episode Christophe Hoppe the founder and CEO of Bausele Watches (@bausele) joins the show giving the background behind Bausele and supporting the creation of the Langstone. The Bausele Langstone Project incorporates the design aesthetic and build quality of Bausele, yet remaining historically accurate and respectful to the original 'Tuna Can' COSD Watches issued to the COPP Canoeists.

For full notes, photos, and video links subscribe to Analog Explorer on Substack - https://analogexplorer.substack.com/p/ae-24-80th-anniversary-d-day-and

Jun 06, 202401:05:58
AE 23 | Fabien Cousteau "Watch Collection Made Under Pressure"

AE 23 | Fabien Cousteau "Watch Collection Made Under Pressure"

For full notes, photos, and video links, subscribe to Analog Explorer on Substack https://analogexplorer.substack.com/p/ae-23-fabien-cousteau-watch-collection-b42


Welcome to the finale of the “Undersea Explorer Series” by the Analog Explorer for the Made Under Pressure podcast!

Fabien Cousteau almost needs no introduction. He is a renowned aquanaut, explorer, environmental advocate, and filmmaker who is one of the leading figures in ocean exploration and conservation. But deeper than that, he is a father, a vintage motorcycle enthusiast, and a friend of ours in the #watchfam.


Throughout his career, Fabien Cousteau has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to the oceans. His immersive underwater missions, educational outreach, and innovative watch collaborations continue to inspire a global audience to appreciate and protect our planet's precious marine environments. Fabien's work stands as another beacon of hope and a call to action for the preservation of our underwater world.


For more including full notes, photos, and links, subscribe or support to Analog Explorer on Substack -

https://analogexplorer.substack.com/p/ae-23-fabien-cousteau-watch-collection-b42

May 26, 202454:59
AE 22 | Cristina Mittermeier - Photography Made Under Pressure

AE 22 | Cristina Mittermeier - Photography Made Under Pressure

For full notes, photos, and video links, subscribe to Analog Explorer on Substack -

https://analogexplorer.substack.com/p/ae-22-cristina-mittermeier-mitty


In my career as a professional photographer, several artists come to mind who have inspired me as an artist. However, one in particular stands out both for her work with indigenous peoples worldwide and for her underwater environmental photography; Cristina Mittermeier. She is an award-winning wildlife and conservation photographer, a marine biologist, a renowned portrait photographer, co-founder of SeaLegacy, and a mom. And if that isn’t enough, she is also secretly a friend of ours in the #watchfam as an explorer supported by the Rolex Perpetual Planet initiative.


For more including full notes, photos, and links, subscribe or support to Analog Explorer on Substack - ⁠https://analogexplorer.substack.com/p/ae-22-cristina-mittermeier-mitty⁠

Apr 20, 202451:34
AE 21 | Shooting for the Moon | Monolith and Barrelhand

AE 21 | Shooting for the Moon | Monolith and Barrelhand

For full notes, photos, and video links, subscribe to Analog Explorer on Substack - https://open.substack.com/pub/analogexplorer/p/ae-21-shooting-for-the-moon-monolith


🛸 Back on the mic is the engineering and 3d printing visionary Karel Bachand, founder of Barrelhand Watches. You might remember him from AE 15, where he discussed the fusion of 3D printing and cutting-edge watch design. But this time, all systems are finally ready to lift off with the project he teased at the end of that episode; the Monolith.

Barrelhand was kind enough to include me months ago as a beta tester of the Monolith right here on planet Earth here in the PNW. After weeks of wearing it and providing feedback, it was incredible to be able to look behind the scenes as this project progressed. But even after that prototype that was on my wrist, which I’m glad I can finally share with you now, they still continued to improve upon what was already out of this world in design. As you’ll hear, they made it even lighter (20%) and more robust than the prototype I had on my wrist! It was already the lightest automatic watch, in a 38mm case, I had ever felt. Being made from an alloy as light as aluminum, stronger than titanium, and, of course, 3d printed.


For more including full notes, photos, and links, subscribe or support to Analog Explorer on Substack - https://open.substack.com/pub/analogexplorer/p/ae-21-shooting-for-the-moon-monolith

Mar 14, 202401:01:10
AE. 20 | Jason Heaton

AE. 20 | Jason Heaton

For full notes, photos, and video links subscribe to Analog Explorer on Substack - analogexplorer.substack.com/p/ae-20-jason-heaton

Jason Heaton has carved out a distinctive niche for himself in the #watchfam. He and his wife, Gishani, are an adventuresome traveling duo. Diving around the world to photograph and write about some of the most horologically heavy-hitting dive watches that the world, and the deep, have ever seen.
Jason’s writing has been featured in print and online in Outside magazine, Gear Patrol, Men’s Journal, and Hodinkee just to name a few. His passion for diving and dive watches was recognized by the New York Times in 2017, bestowing upon him the title as the world’s "test pilot for undersea timepieces."
In his writing, Jason’s experience comes through as an avid outdoor enthusiast. His newsletter on Substack, Swimpruf, is an ongoing ‘dispatch’ of his adventures, his Land Rover, and stories around his watches. He also co-hosts the popular podcast, The Grey NATO, with James Stacey, where they share about “adventure, diving, driving, gear…and most certainly, watches.“
On the Analog Explorer, we dive into (pun very much intended) watches, diving, and how adventure found Jason and formed his writing career. As a world traveler who has taken over 200 timepieces down with him on over 500 dives, we touch on diving trends and where gear might go in the future.
Since the pandemic, Jason has expanded his writing into fiction. First, with his novel "Depth Charge" (2021), and now his new novel, "Sweetwater" (2023). As a fan of his two novels, our chat turned to the watches that showed up in the adventure series and why he paired them to their characters. We also explore what some of the real life inspirations were for his characters and locations.

For more including full notes, photos, and links subscribe or support to Analog Explorer on Substack - ⁠https://analogexplorer.substack.com/p/ae-20-jason-heaton⁠
Dec 08, 202301:04:03
 AE. 19 | Typsim Watches

AE. 19 | Typsim Watches

For full notes, photos, and video links subscribe to Analog Explorer on Substack 

Typsim Watches. Designs inspired from the past, tested in the PNW, and made to age with time with its wearer.

While meeting up with my fellow watch enthusiasts at RedBar Seattle, I was able to catchup with Matt Zinski. Matt is a classically trained architect, founder of Typsim Watches based in Seattle, Washington, and a friend of ours in the #watchfam.

On the episode we chat about Typsim's start, it’s watch models, including a diver watch not yet released, the newly announced a field watch (The Guide), and I get to pick his brain as to what he has in store for his Seattle watch brand.

See Substack post for the full notes including images and links.

https://open.substack.com/pub/analogexplorer/p/ae-19-typsim-watches?r=8z6az&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web



Sep 15, 202333:02
AE. 18 | "Bezel Action"

AE. 18 | "Bezel Action"

Looking at the history and alternative methods of measuring time with and without a complication in a mechanical movement.

For full notes, photos, and video links subscribe to Analog Explorer on Substack, and as always with a AE x ZT collab-episode, there will be an extended conversation version on the Zulu Time Podcast feed.

There has been a lot of buzz surrounding affordable GMT complications in microbrand watches. On the mic is long-time Analog Explorer alumni  ⁠Dan⁠ ( @Timely_Moments ) from the ⁠Zulu Time Podcast⁠, and in this collaborative episode, we explore how the bezel surrounding GMT movements can enhance their functionality. We cover a brief history of the evolution of bezels and what they measure. And we put out our conjecture that perhaps we may see a revival of simpler bezel designs that allow for different timing options without the added expense and complexity of a mechanical 4-hand movement.

Aug 05, 202354:50
AE. 17 | The Antiquarian Horologist - Brittany Nicole Cox

AE. 17 | The Antiquarian Horologist - Brittany Nicole Cox

For full notes, photos, and video links subscribe to Analog Explorer on Substack 

https://analogexplorer.substack.com/p/ae-17-the-antiquarian-horologist

The rise of artificial intelligence has captured society's attention yet again, with machines now able to simulate human intelligence and behavior. It's like magic inside a box or a ghost in a machine. But have we seen this before? Could there have been an Analog Artificial Intelligence? In this episode, I delve into the world of mechina-intelligence through the gears and springs of automata. I chat with Brittany "Nico" Cox, an Antiquarian Horologist and owner of Memoria Technica in Vashon Island here in Washington State, who specializes in the conservation and restoration of antique automata, complicated clocks and watches, and singing bird objects. Discover more in the full show notes on Substack.



Apr 28, 202340:38
AE. 16 | Watches and Wondering

AE. 16 | Watches and Wondering

For full notes, photos, and video links subscribe to Analog Explorer on Substack  and as always with a AE x ZT collab-episode, there will be an extended conversation version on the Zulu Time Podcast feed.

Just in time for the upcoming Watches and Wonders, on the mic is long-time Analog Explorer alumni  ⁠Dan⁠ ( @Timely_Moments ) from the ⁠Zulu Time Podcast⁠. This was a collaborative episode that came out of several different text threads we’ve been sharing over the last few weeks, hitting on three topics we’ve wanted to record about:

Mar 26, 202348:58
AE.15 | Karel Bachand of Barrelhand Watches

AE.15 | Karel Bachand of Barrelhand Watches

For full notes, photos, and video links subscribe to Analog Explorer on Substack 

Meet Karel Bachand, founder of Barrelhand watches. While studying engineering in his undergraduate program, he stumbled upon watchmaking but not in the traditional sense. Blending his newly discovered fascination with watchmaking and his futurist vision of 3D printing, as a freshmen in college he set out to create a 3D printed watch. By a sophomore, he was flown out to Switzerland by the avand-guard watch company Urwerk because of what he created. And by his senior year in college he had an all original watch design of his own and the start of his own company Barrelhand. Oh, yeah, and he graduated with his engineering degree too.

In this episode of AE, we sit down with Karel to hear his crazy story, where he is now as 28 year old, and what is in the works for Barrelhand watches. All from the lens of the term "avant-garde," and how it plays a role in analog explorations. 

https://analogexplorer.substack.com/p/ae-15-karel-bachand-of-barrelhand 

Feb 07, 202301:04:29
AE. 14 | Watches from on wrist to underwater
Dec 02, 202201:12:06
AE.13 | Collect "ing" Around Watches | Zulu Time x Analog Explorer Podcast

AE.13 | Collect "ing" Around Watches | Zulu Time x Analog Explorer Podcast

Dan is the host of the Zulu Time Podcast, based out of the UK, a military watch collector, an Analog Explorer alumni, and a very good friend of ours in the #watchfam.

For full episode notes, photos, and videos, be sure you have subscribed to the Analog Explorer on Substack | Link

In this two-part joint episode between the Zulu Time Podcast and the Analog Explorer, AJ and Dan take a look at the notion around Collecting Around Watches. To listen to the whole hour and a half episode you will have to do a little collecting yourself. Part one can be heard on the Zulu Time Podcast Ep. 61 | Link. And on this second part, Dan and AJ are diving into the topic from the lens of the recent Cole Pennington (Hodinkee) wrote in the article Buying, Selling, & Collecting So You Collect Watches, But What Else? This Is How You Make The Hobby More Fun.” Check out the link and see if you can spot the mention (and patch) of the Zulu Time Podcast Cole’s article.

Remember to subscribe to BOTH podcasts for the full hour and a half episode, and for show notes (and there is A LOT with this one) be sure to check out the post on the Analog Explorer on Substack | Link

https://analogexplorer.substack.com/p/collect-ing-around-watches


Aug 05, 202252:34
AE. 12 | Blok Watches | Neil Ferrier

AE. 12 | Blok Watches | Neil Ferrier

Meet Neil Ferrier, Owner at Discommon, Co-Founder of Blok Watch Company (@blokwatches), and a friend in the #watchfam. See the Adventure School video on how my 5-year-old lives life in the PNW, with a blok 33 https://www.instagram.com/p/Ce_T7I5g-KL

There are much more notes to this episode! For full notes, photos, and video links subscribe to Analog Explorer on Substack.


Jun 28, 202238:44
AE. 11 | Kyle Snarr + Cantonment

AE. 11 | Kyle Snarr + Cantonment

Meet Kyle Snarr (@kyality), cofounder of @cantonmentco, newly announced Head of Partnerships @wornandwound, a brand consultant, and a friend in the #watchfam. 

For full notes, photos, and video links subscribe to Analog Explorer on Substack

Cantonment is "... dedicated to helping you strike a better balance by creating high-quality accessories that are stylish yet useful. aka: Stylized Substance™"
Instagram @CantonmentCo


Jun 10, 202247:42
AE. 10 | 'Moonswatch' | Analog Explorer x Zulu Time Podcast
Apr 04, 202201:02:43
AE. 09 | ARES Watch Co. | Matt Graham

AE. 09 | ARES Watch Co. | Matt Graham

Meet Matthew Graham, owner and manufacture of the PNW based ARES Watch Company in Stanwood Washington USA.  - https://www.areswatches.com/.

In this episode, we take a look at a regular daydream that drifts into mind of many watch enthusiasts; to make a watch, or, to make a watch company? I took a 45 min drive south from Bellingham to meet up with Matt at the all new ARES HQ and newly establish manufacturing facility. ARES Watches is a 3 year old company producing PNW built  tool watches with mission timer functionality, high depth rating, Swiss (ETA) movements, and with a case that is manufactured here in the Pacific Northwest in the town of Stanwood Washington. 

Matt on Instagram= @areswatchco  https://www.instagram.com/areswatchco/

To support the Analog Explorer

analogexplorer.com 

Subscribe on Substack = https://analogexplorer.substack.com/

Instagram = @ajbarse  

Patreon= patreon.com/ajbarse

The Bellingham Podcast

www.bellinghampodcast.com

Jan 28, 202236:54
AE. 08 | Peninsula Kelp Co. | Graham Gannon

AE. 08 | Peninsula Kelp Co. | Graham Gannon

Following the backstory of the Peninsula Kelp Co. from AE 07, meet Graham Gannon a diver, underwater farmer, and a friend of ours in the #watchfam.

Peninsula Kelp Co. - https://peninsulakelpco.com/  

Aquascaphe Bronze - https://www.ajbarse.com/baltic-aquascaphe-bronze/ 

Jacques Cousteau, the original Capt. Barnacles - https://www.ajbarse.com/jacques-cousteau-octonauts/ 

Elliot Brown Watches (UK)- https://elliotbrownwatches.com/ 

Holton- https://elliotbrownwatches.com/collections/holton-professional 

EB Heritage Strap - https://elliotbrownwatches.com/collections/straps/products/str-n12-dark-blue-with-sky-blue-pinstripe-webbing-strap

Baltic Watches - https://baltic-watches.com/en




Oct 19, 202134:60
AE. 07 | "The Underwater Farmer"

AE. 07 | "The Underwater Farmer"

Meet Graham Gannon, professional diver and co-owner of the Peninsula Kelp Co based out of Northern Ireland  Peninsula Kelp Co. - https://peninsulakelpco.com/.

In this episode, we dive in [literally] into the backstory of Graham and the Gannon family and what it took to become a kelp farmer...or should I say a farmer of sustainable ocean nutrition. This is part one of two parts, this first part goes into the backstory of Graham and the Peninsula Kelp Co, and AE 08 goes back to the conversational side of the podcast where we go into our watches, our family, and the sea. 

Graham on Instagram= @peninsulakelpco

To support the Analog Explorer

  • analogexplorer.com
  • Instagram = @ajbarse 
  • Patreon= patreon.com/ajbarse
Oct 19, 202132:38
AE. 06 | Zulu Alpha Straps

AE. 06 | Zulu Alpha Straps

This episode is a special edition of The Analog Explorer x The Bellingham Podcast for our #watchfam listeners. The guest on this episode just how 'air tight' a good idea and design can be. His name is Darren, owner and creator of the Zulu Alpha Strap and a very good friend of ours in the watchfam. 

Read about my use of Zulu Alpha Straps on my blog: "From the Office to the Trailhead" https://ajbarse.com/from-office-to-trailhead/ 

Hopefully you all wherever you are in the world are in good form and good health.


Zulu Alpha Straps 

Instagram: @zulualphastraps:  https://www.instagram.com/zulualphastraps

Web: zulualphastraps.com


The Analog Explorer:

www.theanalogexplorer.com


The Bellingham Podcast

www.bellinghampodcast.com

Mar 28, 202037:57
AE. 05 @BuyingOnTime

AE. 05 @BuyingOnTime

On this last episode to the mini-series, we take a look at what watches can mean between generations. Meet Jared of Buying On Time. He is known online for passion for Bulova watches, the founder and owner of the vintage sales & restoration of watches on the site Buying On Time, and  friend of ours in the #watchfam. BuyingOnTime on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/buyingontime/ BOT on the web https://www.buyingontime.com/watches --- The Analog Explorer: www.theanalogexplorer.com
Mar 31, 201932:37
AE. 04: @alenagracediaz

AE. 04: @alenagracediaz

Meet Alena; a watchmaker in Seattle, a lover of cars, a avid PNW adventurer, and friend of ours in the #watchfam Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alenagracediaz/ Seattle Watchmaking https://www.instagram.com/seattlewatchmaking/ --- The Analog Explorer: www.theanalogexplorer.com


Mar 25, 201934:02
AE. 03: @EA8
Mar 25, 201932:43
AE. 02: @ToxicNatos (UTE Watch Co.)

AE. 02: @ToxicNatos (UTE Watch Co.)

Meet Terry of ToxicNatos, a name well known in the community for his killer NATO style straps and a friend of ours in the #watchfam

*updated, now UTE Watch Co. UTE Watch Co. on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/utewatchco/

Where to get a UTE Watch Co Now found at Hodinkee https://shop.hodinkee.com/blogs/journal/ute-nato-strap --- The Analog Explorer: www.theanalogexplorer.com


Mar 25, 201933:56
AE. 01: @DanC21cy

AE. 01: @DanC21cy

Meet Dan (@Timely_Moments), a watch collector in the British Military, and a friend of ours in the #watchfam. 

*Formerly @DanC21cy when this was first recorded) Dan: https://www.instagram.com/timely_moments/ Elliot Brown https://www.instagram.com/ebwatches/?utm_source=ig_profile_share&igshid=11pl1w5gywvvy Holton 354 Project https://www.pageandcooper.com/watch-brands/page-and-cooper-collabs/ Zulu Alpha Straps: https://www.instagram.com/zulualphastraps/?utm_source=ig_profile_share&igshid=kf4j3f8msf6n --- The Analog Explorer: www.theanalogexplorer.com AJ Barse www.ajbarse.com The Bellingham Podcast www.bellinghampodcast.com


Mar 25, 201936:30
AE. 00: #Watchfam Mini Series: The Analog Explorer x Bham Podcast
Mar 25, 201904:53